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Freed by deal with government, Internet firms release new data on NSA surveillance requests

WASHINGTON (AP) - Freed by a recent legal deal with government lawyers, major technology firms released new data Monday on how often they are ordered to turn over customer information for secret national security investigations - figures that show that the government collected data on thousands of Americans.

The publications disclosed by Google, Microsoft, Yahoo, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tumblr provided expanded details and some vented criticism about the government's handling of customers' Internet data in counter-terrorism and other intelligence-related probes. The figures from 2012 and 2013 showed that companies, such as Google and Microsoft, were compelled by the government to provide information on as many as 10,000 customer accounts in a six-month period. Yahoo complied with government requests for information on more than 40,000 accounts in the same period.

The companies earlier provided limited information about government requests for data, but a new agreement reached last week with the Obama administration allowed the firms to provide a broadened, though still circumscribed, set of figures to the public.

Seeking to reassure customers and business partners alarmed by revelations about the government's massive collection of Internet and computer data, the firms stressed details indicating that only small numbers of their customers were targeted by authorities. Still, even those small numbers showed that thousands of Americans were affected by the government requests approved by judges of the secret Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court.

The data releases by the five major tech firms offered a mix of dispassionate graphics, reassurances and protests, seeking to alleviate customer concerns about government spying while pressuring national security officials about the companies' constitutional concerns. The shifting tone in the releases showed the precarious course that major tech firms have had to navigate in recent months, caught between their public commitments to Internet freedom and their enforced roles as data providers to U.S. spy agencies.

Cars warning each other of collisions? US to propose new rules in hopes of cutting crashes

WASHINGTON (AP) - Your car might see a deadly crash coming even if you don't, the government says, indicating it will require automakers to equip new vehicles with technology that lets cars warn each other if they're plunging toward peril.

The action, still some years off, has "game-changing potential" to cut collisions, deaths and injuries, federal transportation officials said at a news conference on Monday.

A radio signal would continually transmit a vehicle's position, heading, speed and other information. Cars and light trucks would receive the same information back from other cars, and a vehicle's computer would alert its driver to an impending collision. Alerts could be a flashing message, an audible warning, or a driver's seat that rumbles. Some systems might even automatically brake to avoid an accident if manufacturers choose to include that option.

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AP News in Brief at 5:58 p.m. EST - Quincy Herald-Whig | Illinois & Missouri News, Sports

Susan Reed, Landscape Architect - Landscape Architect - Shelburne Falls, MA
If you are looking for one of the best Landscape Architects near Shelburne Falls, MA then contact Susan Reed today! Susan Reed, Landscape Architect Shelburne...

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Susan Reed, Landscape Architect - Landscape Architect - Shelburne Falls, MA - Video

Author and historian Phil Nuxhall is set to provide a virtual tour of two historic cemeteries with ties to renowned landscape architect Adolph Strauch.

Nuxhall, the son of legendary Reds pitcher and radio broadcaster Joe Nuxhall, will discuss the Spring Grove and Greenwood cemeteries at the Celebrating Self Luncheon Series at the Fitton Center for Creative Arts. The event is set for Feb. 12 in the Carruthers Signature Ballroom at the center located at 101 S. Monument Ave.

Nuxhall will focus on the cemeteries history, art, architecture and landscape. The presentation will feature photos from his book, Beauty in the Grove: Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum, and vintage photos from Greenwood Cemetery in Hamilton.

Strauch is known for his designs of Spring Grove Cemetery, Eden Park and Burnet Woods in Cincinnati, as well as Graceland Cemetery in Chicago.

The Celebrating Self Luncheon Series is a casual and informative luncheon series featuring regional speakers. The Carruthers Signature Ballroom opens at 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 12 with a buffet lunch by Coach House Catering and musical entertainment by Treva Boardman.

The cost for the luncheon is $15 for members and $20 for non-members. For tickets, call 513-863-8873 ext. 110 or visit http://www.fittoncenter.org.

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Phil Nuxhall to speak at the Fitton Center

For most gardeners this is the time of year when cabin fever is at its worst. There is little to be done in the yard. Planting is not an option. Weeding is impossible. And looking out the window watching the grass grow is nothing more than a joke.

The weather though, should not be a deterrent to at least planning for the new season. Its not too early to start thinking about changes in landscape design. Visualizing additions to existing flower beds or constructing new ones is just the beginning of the planning process. Building water features like a waterfall, fountains and ponds into a landscape design, creating walkways, adding a deck or adding onto an existing deck or sprucing up a patio are all possibilities. Experimenting with different types of annuals and perennials to enhance flower beds or even looking into the possibility of adding additional shrubs and trees to the landscape are added pluses for planning.

One of the major issues is how to get started and where to find the necessary information for any type of transformation. On-line research, catalogues and booking open doors to new ideas. Another avenue for research is attending one of numerous home and flower shows. Most shows contract with landscape designers to create gardens within the building and with suppliers to display everything from mulches to plant material to landscape building materials. Many also offer classes on a variety of gardening topics to help ease into the learning and planning process.

In Ohio the show season kicks off with The Great Big Home and Garden Show. It is open from Feb. 8 -16 and, as always will be in the Cleveland IX Center. Ahmed Hassan, a celebrity landscaper and TV host of DIY Networks Yard Crashers, and Joel Karsten, who offers a unique perspective on straw bale gardening for the vegetable garden are both scheduled to make guest appearances at the show. Pettiti Garden Centers will be offering seminars daily and there are 68 garden, landscape and outdoors exhibitors will be in attendance.

Throughout the state, in cities large and small home and garden shows are standard issue. The larger metropolitan areas of Columbus, Toledo, Cincinnati and Dayton host major events that offer a variety of exhibitors, garden displays and seminars. The number of exhibitors is greater in the larger city shows than those in smaller communities. The show season runs from February through April.

Visiting these shows is a great way to get new ideas for the 2014 season, to learn new garden techniques, to learn new uses for old materials and to see what new products will be on the market this year. It is a way to get out of the house, take a one day or even an overnight road trip. It is easy to locate the shows and the shows dates online just pick a show destination, plug it into the search engine.

For those less adventurous, the annual Great Lakes Home and Flower Show at Kalahari Resort is scheduled for March 14, 15 and 16 this year.

For gardening or Master Gardener information, check us out at erie.osu.edu or call 419-627-7631.

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Get a taste of spring at Ohio garden shows

By Steve Jacobs, Nature Designs

Aside from your home, your landscape is typically the second largest personal asset you own. Its an asset that can add tens of thousands of dollars of value to your home. Landscaping not only adds value immediately; it continues adding value for years to come because while other home renovations, such as kitchen and bathroom upgrades, eventually go out of style, plants and tree continue to grow and become more lush and valuable year after year. To ensure that youre adding value to your home, heres a list of investment opportunities to consider:

Add large trees that are healthy and properly prunedRecent nationwide surveys show that mature trees in a well-landscaped yard can increase the value of a house by 7 percent to 19 percent. Not only do trees contribute to curb appeal; they provide much-desired privacy and shade. Strategically placed trees can also cut down on air conditioning and therefore electricity bills.

Quality hardscape Brick, stone, and exposed aggregate there are so many wonderful options for hardscapes. We dont typically recommend pavers or concrete for estates because pavers dont often give that high-level appearance while concrete and stamped concrete tend to show age over time. Its important to choose a hardscape option that complements your garden and home. Investing in a quality driveway material is also something to consider since driveways play such a key role in curb appeal.

Swimming poolsThanks to San Diegos incomparable weather, San Diegans can throw pool parties all year-round! A swimming pool is a must if your goal is to convert your backyard into an oasis. Not only do pools add to your quality of life; a well-designed pool adds value in the luxury home market.

Water features Imagine lounging in your backyard listening to the trickle of water from your fountain, waterfall, stream or pond after a busy week. Water features add a peaceful ambience to an outdoor space, help drown out neighboring noises as well as enhance the beauty of your landscape. Water features also add an element of uniqueness to your landscape that can increase your property value.

Outdoor kitchens and living rooms Experts say that outdoor kitchens and living rooms help sell homes in warmer climates. Its key to build outdoor kitchens and living spaces that blend with your homes design. As an added bonus, you can use the drain water from your outdoor kitchen sink to irrigate your flower beds.

Curb appealFirst impressions are lasting, which is one of the reasons curb appeal is so important for the value of your home. There are so many wonderful ways to enhance curb appeal such as adding colorful planting beds, columns and walls, and upgrading light fixtures. Its also important to prune and lace trees and shrubs to show off their beauty.

In order for landscaping to increase your property value and the value of life in a meaningful way, its imperative to have a landscaping plan. Your landscape is a living asset, meaning that much care is needed so that each plant thrives. A good professional landscape contractor will look comprehensively at the site before choosing hardscape materials and plantings because, for example, if the wrong plant is planted in the wrong location, the results can be overgrown plants that are too close to the house, that block windows and views, or trees with roots that destroy a walkway or driveway. Quality landscape maintenance from trained professionals will ensure excellent results.

Whether youre looking for short term landscaping solutions to increase your home value to sell immediately or long term landscaping solutions to increase your quality of life and property value, visit Nature Designs to learn how we can help make your landscape even more of an asset. Log ontohttp://naturedesigns.net/ or call us at(760) 945-4321.

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Investing in Your Second Largest Asset Landscaping

For the royal treatment, spend the night in a castle. Here are five to consider.

1. CASTELLO DI CASOLE, TUSCANY, ITALY.

Stay in a reconstructed farmhouse surrounded by vineyards or opt for a suite adjacent to the pool and spa in the centre of the 1670-hectare estate.

Oozing with charm, the restored castle and grounds, dating to 998, provide a fairy-tale backdrop for a family holiday that might include horseback riding, fishing, hiking, yoga in a restored church, exploring neighbouring villages or learning to create local specialties. In the warmer months, enjoy evening concerts on the lawn as the sun drops below the rolling Tuscan hills.

Details: castellodicasole.com

2. OHEKA CASTLE, HUNTINGTON, NEW YORK

This French chateau-inspired castle was built in 1917 as the summer retreat for financier and philanthropist Otto Kahn. Docent-led tours provide visitors a glimpse into the Roaring '20s, when the mansion was the scene of lavish parties attended by Hollywood luminaries and royalty. Guests can enjoy an indoor pool or private beach, explore the extensive gardens, play tennis or work up a sweat in the fitness centre.

Details: oheka.com

3. ASHFORD CASTLE, MAYO, IRELAND

Shed your armour and relax within this enchanting 140-hectare landscape. With 700-year-old turrets as your backdrop, fish in nearby ponds and rivers, ride horses or refine your skills on the nine-hole private golf course.

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Holiday like royalty in a castle

Land Clearing with Ken Freddie

By: Eric Rose

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Land Clearing with Ken & Freddie - Video

1/50 Land Clearing Dio Day #5
Day #5! Sorry it Took Awhile but here you go!

By: CATIPLLIAR143

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1/50 Land Clearing Dio Day #5 - Video

Published: Saturday, February 1, 2014 at 9:37 p.m. Last Modified: Sunday, February 2, 2014 at 10:36 p.m.

About two miles down the rural highway from Byron and Catherine Peavys house, a bulldozer has been clearing a path in their direction.

At their house, behind an automatic gate with a stenciled sign that shouts: VOLUSIA COUNTY WANTS TO TAKE OUR LAND, the Peavys have been waiting for it to reach their front yard.

Rather, what they thought was their front yard.

The Peavys are two of the latest Florida residents to discover land they believed was theirs has been reserved for government use dating back to the Depression era.

The reason is the Murphy Act, a 1937 bailout program that eventually returned tax-defaulted land to private property owners on a few conditions. Among those conditions: The government could come back and claim strips of those lands to improve or expand roads.

So, 77 years after it passed, the Murphy Act is still working, this time to build a section of the East Central Regional Rail Trail, a 52-mile hiking-biking project that will eventually span the county. In Osteen, people like the Peavys say the law is working against them, taking property they thought they owned free and clear.

Volusia County officials say the law is working on behalf of taxpayers because Murphy reservations belong to everyone, and they spare the millions of dollars governments would otherwise have to pay for miles and miles of road right of way.

Whats right in America today is wrong, and whats wrong is right, Byron Peavy said recently in a living room that has sort of become the Murphy oppositions base. Theyre every bit right to take that land, he said of the countys legal claim. But its wrong to do it.

We have an obligation, with it being available to the public, countered Jerry Brinton, the Volusia County engineer overseeing the project. Wed be criticized if we did anything other than use it for what it was intended for.

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Path of Resistance Osteen residents feel blindsided by law from Depression era giving Volusia County access to their ...

Los Angeles Interior Designer HGTV.com Winner
Velvet Hammerschmidt Design is a full-service residential and commercial interior design firm based in Santa Monica California. The firm s success is attribu...

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